Cousin Charged In Murder Of Philadelphia Community Leader

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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A community leader was gunned down late Wednesday night, just steps from his home in the Cobb’s Creek section of the city and police say they have charged his cousin with the crime.

Investigators say 55-year-old Gregory Scott, a husband, father of five and community activist, was involved with helping recovering drug addicts., but police say he was ambushed as he exited his car as he returned home from work by his cousin, 47-year-old James Scott.

James Scott, along with 25-year-old James Hiller, were arrested Thursday. They are charged with murder and other related charges.

Gregory Scott was shot numerous times in the head and chest and was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:30 p.m.

Chief Inspector Scott Small said they believe Gregory Scott and his cousin had a history of bad blood and they were involved in an altercation a half-hour prior to the shooting. He said the suspect was waiting for the victim to return home.

“And when he got out of his vehicle, he ran up to him and fired several shots,” Clark added.

“He was a father figure to many of us children. He also was a leader. He was one that made sure we stayed out of trouble,” a longtime friend of Scott said.